Braces and Retainers

What to expect with braces

Your friends who have had braces will be a good source of information and support.

Your orthodontist and his or her staff will also be an excellent source of information.

Your care will be coordinated between your family dentist and orthodontist. This is of paramount importance.

You will receive special instruction on how to clean your teeth.

Your braces or appliances will have to be adjusted approximately every 4-6 weeks.

You may experience mild soreness or pressure during the first few weeks in braces and for a few days after adjustments at subsequent office visits.

Initially, your cheeks, lips, and even tongue can get sore from the irritation of having the braces on. Usually this is gone after the first few days.

Your time in braces may be from 6-36 months depending on the complexity of treatment.

Troubleshooting braces

If a wire is causing irritation, try pushing the wire away from the area being irritated using the eraser end of a pencil, or the end of a spoon. If the wire cannot be tucked in, cover the end of the wire with a small piece of wax.

If your teeth are sore after a regular visit at your orthodontist, he/she may suggest mild pain medications. Rinsing your mouth with a teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water can also be soothing.

If food becomes stuck between your teeth, use dental floss or a proxy brush to dislodge the food.

If a piece of your appliance breaks, save the piece and call your orthodontist to schedule a repair visit.

If a retainer cracks, immediately call for an appointment and bring it to your orthodontist for a professional repair.

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